Tasks Undertaken By Shivaji Maharaj's Navy

 Coastal Defense: One of the primary tasks of the Maratha Navy was to defend the Konkan coast and protect Maratha territories from coastal invasions by enemy forces. They were responsible for monitoring and safeguarding the coastline, coastal forts, and key ports against attacks from rival powers, such as the Portuguese, Siddis, and Mughals. Preventing European and Siddis, from harassing common people of Konkan was a very major task.

 

Challenging Portuguese Dominance: Shivaji Maharaj aimed to challenge their dominance and limit their control over the region. His Navy actively engaged in naval battles and skirmishes with the Portuguese fleet, disrupting their operations and weakening their hold on key ports and trade routes.

 

Raiding Enemy Ships and Ports: They would launch surprise attacks, capture enemy vessels, and seize valuable resources and supplies. These raids not only inflicted economic damage on the adversaries but also boosted the morale of the Maratha Navy.

 

Supporting Land Campaigns: His Navy played a vital role in supporting land campaigns by providing naval firepower and transport for troops and supplies. They would conduct amphibious operations, provide artillery support from the sea, and assist in the capture of coastal forts during land offensives.

 

Protecting Maritime Trade: His Navy was assigned the task of safeguarding Maratha merchant vessels and ensuring the safe passage of trade ships along the Konkan coast. This involved protecting them from pirate attacks and enemy privateers.

 

By effectively managing and deploying his naval forces, Shivaji Maharaj sought to secure his maritime territories, protect trade, challenge rival powers, and establish Maratha dominance in the region.

 

 

Tactics Employed by the Maratha Navy

 

 

Blockades: They employed blockades to impede enemy ports, effectively disrupting their trade and supply chains, thereby weakening their economy and military forces.

 

Raids: They conducted strategic raids on enemy shipping, seizing or destroying vessels and cargo, thus dealing significant blows to the enemy's economy and morale.

 

Transportation: They served as a vital transport entity, facilitating the movement of troops and supplies, particularly in support of the Maratha army during land campaigns.

 

Strengths of the Maratha Navy: The Maratha Navy showcased versatility, capable of fulfilling diverse roles and adapting to various situations.The navy possessed adequate resources and training, enhancing its operational effectiveness.The Maratha Navy benefited from the leadership of skilled and experienced commanders.Patriotism was the biggest quality which the Maratha soldiers had. They were fighting to create a Swarajya and were not mercenaries like the Mughals and Siddi